Sony has unveiled the latest models in its BRAVIA line of LCD high definition TVs — 17 of them to be precise. These are generally additions to existing "series" of BRAVIA TVs, but expect some funky new designs and updated technology (or updated technology lingo at the very least).
Z Series
Two new models join the Z Series of BRAVIA TVs. The 40-inch KDL-40Z4100 and 46-inch KDL-46Z4100 are both full 1080p LCD TVs featuring the new BRAVIA Engine 2, Motionflow 120Hz high frame rate technology, x.v.Color, WCG-CCFL backlight with Advanced Contrast Enhancer, and 10-bit processing with a 10-bit panel.
Aesthetically, they feature an elegant slim bezel, and connections-wise have the BRAVIA Sync feature, four HDMI inputs (good move), two components, and PC input.
W Series
Three models join the ranks of W: the 52-inch KDL-52W4100, 46-inch KDL-46W4100 and 40-inch KDL-40W4100.
They all feature the new 3D graphic interface, BRAVIA Sync, Motionflow 120Hz, and the same connections as the Z Series models.
V Series
Sony touts the V Series as entry level models, and three models enter the stable: the 52-inch KDL-52V4100 (pictured), 46-inch KDL-46V4100 and 40-inch KDL-40V4100. The press release feels like it’s winding down at this point, but as there’s no mention of the Motionflow 120Hz technology, I’ll assume it doesn’t feature.
They still have all the inputs and handle 1080p and 24p modes, though.
XBR6 Series
Sony has packed 1080p into 32 and 37 inch TVs. The KDL-37XBR6 and KDL-32XBR6 surely handle the resolution, but whether it’s really worth it is your call. Personally, I doubt you’d notice it.
N Series
Back to the premium end of Sony tellies with the N Series, which has been designed with audio in mind (apparently). The new 26, 32, and 37-inch models (KDL-26N4000, KDL-32N4000, and KDL-37N4000) all have slick aesthetic design, supposedly to complement the PS3.
The 37 and 32 inch models feature integrated 5.1 channel audio, with the 26 incher offering 3.1 audio, with built-in subwoofer in the stand and matching full range speakers.
Sensibly for this size, they’re all 720p resolution.
M Series
Four models make up Sony’s entry-level M Series of BRAVIAs. The KDL-26M4000, KDL-32M4000 and KDL-37M4000 offer 26, 32, and 37-inches of screen estate at 720p resolution, while the KDL-19M4000 is a 19-inch screen verging on the edge of computer monitor status, offering 1,440 x 900 resolution.
All 17 models (count ’em) will be available this spring (in the US, at least). Pricing and more specifications are sure to follow. I think Sony has made a big enough statement on the telly front for now.
